festivals

A Quick Look At All Of The Food Vendors At Coachella This Year

by
Coachella Food Guide
Coachella/UPROXX

In the insanity of a music lineup stacked with heavyweights, larger-than-life art sculptures, and breathtaking moments, it’s easy to overlook one of the most memorable parts of Coachella – the food!

A simple stroll through the Indio Central Market, Coachella’s main food court, is like falling into an international vortex of savory and sweet fragrances. From top-end juicy burgers to southern-style hot chicken sammies, these culinary delights are right on par with the headliners. Choosing what to eat is no less challenging than deciding which act to hear next. With 26 vegan options, five different pizza vendors, and stylized food from cultures far and wide, it’s a great time to try something new, too.

Just like following your ears will lead to your own personal listening adventure and a universe of new musical discoveries at Coachella, following your other senses is sure to bring similar joy. The difference is most of these handpicked morsels aren’t available to stream later. In fact, outside Coachella, it’s safe to say finding a spread like this all at once is near impossible.

So, what’s new on the menu?

Hot this year, Coachella has five incredible dining options when it comes to cuisine:

  • First and most intriguing for sushi-lovers, there’s Sushi by Scratch ($375 + fees), a hidden Omakase speakeasy with a 17-course sushi meal. It’s even got a secret door!
  • Second, the event annually hosts a full-fledged restaurant experience inside the festival grounds. This year Coachella offers a romantic pop-up with oysters courtesy of Los Angeles’ famed seafood specialists, Broad Street Oyster Co.
  • Third, a cavalcade of top-shelf chefs will assemble in the Polo Fields mythic rose gardens for a 275-person banquet-style meal on long tables. Known as Outstanding In The Field ($275 + fees), the world-class chef lineup is complimented by food from local farms, accompanied by some of the best cocktails, beer, and wine the festival has to offer.
  • Fourth, Lay’s (yes, the potato chip company) is unveiling a mysterious activation they’re calling “Fresh 4D”, which promises to be a totally multi-sensory snacking experience.
  • The last and most robust eating option, which is already accessible with a GA or VIP wristband, can be found in more than 50 food trucks, restaurants, and caterers who converge from around the country for the event. In the Beer Gardens, the campgrounds, the Terrace, 12 Peaks VIP, Rose Garden VIP, and in Coachella’s Indio Central Market, you’ll find these culinary maestros serving all their own specialties in signature flair.

For a taste of what those vendors bring to the table, read on! (Vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian menu options are listed — V, VEG, GF)

All Dat Dim Sum

Strap yourself in for spicy wontons and steamed buns. This Santa Monica-based crew offers the perfect comfort food for those cool Indio nights.

(V)(VEG)

Backyard Bowls

Don’t let a heavy breakfast slow you down. Get an acai bowl instead and be back in the action before you know it.

(V) (VEG) (GF)

Bolo

Succulent on the inside and crispy at the edges, Bolo’s chicken sammies explode with juicy flavor. The portions are massive too, making it perfect in all those times when you’ve been dancing your heart out and need to catch up on calories.

(VEG)

Bridgetown Roti

This option is only available in the Rose Garden during weekend 2. Probably because the punch packed by its jerk flavors and Caribbean spices can knock a set of taste buds into next week.

Cena Vegan

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Nominated for an award from Veg News, Cena’s is one of those places vegans can bring their non-vegan friends to blow their minds with what’s possible. Try their burritos, nachos, and tacos. They’ll make a believer out of anyone.

(V)(VEG)(GF)

Craig’s Vegan

Thick, creamy, and it’s non-dairy so it won’t slow you down. These classic ice cream flavors are made with a trademarked vegan cashew base!

(V)(VEG)(GF)

Dayglow

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Basically the mixologists of Coachella’s coffee scene, Dayglow makes cold brews with unexpectedly exceptional flavors from ingredients like citrus, berries, and Cacao.

(V)

El Chino Grande

Dive into a sweet and tangy blend of Thai and Hawai’ian street foods from the inventive mind of Chef Chris Yang.

(V)(VEG)(GF)

Erva

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Move over tea, maté is here and it’s got an attitude. Order lip-smacking beverages inspired by the biggest acts of 2022, like “Watermelon Sugar” a la Harry Styles, “WAP” as a nod to Megan Thee Stallion, and “Keep it Juicy”, which was inspired by the hit track from Doja Cat.

(V)(VEG)(GF)

Ggiata

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Catching yourself craving an East Coast-style Italian deli? Head to Ggiata in the VIP section – and accept no substitutes.

(VEG)

Hattie B’s

Turn up the heat with a sandwich from one of the most praised hot chicken icons in the country. Between the crunch of the pickles and the zing of the slaw, the blend of flavors is an unforgettable kick.

(VEG)(GF)

Hawkins House of Burgers

Hawkins monster patties, zippy pastrami, and gooey cheese are sure to quelch the hunger pangs. This Black woman-owned operation is fresh, passionate about their burgers, and always right on point.

(V)(VEG)(GF)

Irv’s Burgers

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Perhaps the country’s most historic burger stand, Irv’s has been around for more than half a century grilling ‘em up on Route 66. It’s practically a national landmark for foodies.

KazuNori

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Did someone say “Sushi Burrito”? These uncut nori rolls made possible by SUGARFISH and Nozawa Bar are almost too perfect on the go. Chewing: optional.

Kogi BBQ

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For conversational finger food that is as addicting as it is delicious, try the Loaded Korean BBQ Fries at the Kogi Truck. Get a second order too, as the portions are hearty but you still won’t want to share.

(VEG)

LA Pizzeria Co Pizza

For a slice as big as your face, LA Pizzaria Co has your back. The foldable New York-style classic never disappoints and for a popular festival, like Coachella, the prices are surprisingly affordable.

Lettuce Feast

These two-handed soul food creations are made with plants. Get one for a non-vegan friend and they won’t even know.

(V)(VEG)

Love Hour

Heavy set LA-style burgers topped with ingredients named in colorful innuendos, like hot honey and love sauce. Don’t forget the seasoned fries with garlic parmesan. They’re dreamy, cheesy, and fun to share.

(V)(VEG)(GF)

ManEatingPlant

Arriving for their first ever time at the festival, this Asian comfort food is sure to be a hit. Try the vegan noods!

(V)(VEG)(GF)

Milk Box Bar Boba

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Milk tea mania is taking over! Beat the heat and ditch the sugary drinks in favor of a mango matcha boba or a plant-based Thai tea with oat milk.

(V)(VEG)(GF)

Monty’s

Classic diner staples like burgers, fries, tots, and shakes are available here, but with a twist. The owners pay all their employees a living wage.

(V)(VEG)

Post & Beam

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Only available for Weekend 1, this Southern-style spot features a true farm to face experience produced by an award-winning executive chef, John Cleveland.

(V)(VEG)(GF)

Prince Street Pizza

For pizza lovers who know variety is the spice of life, the Craft Beer Barn has something extra special. Get New York and Sicilian-style square-cut slices here.

(VEG)

Ramen Hood Vegan Ramen

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Famed for their #richassbroth, Ramen Hood is a steal for what you get. When the temperature cools off at night it’s invigorating too. Plus, with vegan options available it won’t weigh you down.

(V)(VEG)(GF)

Ronan

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For the classic Italian-style pizza lovers, these personal-sized Neapolitan pies are a game-changer. They’re family-owned and operated too.

(V)(VEG)

Salt & Straw

Head to The Terrace to cool off in this air-conditioned. There you’ll find “daringly delicious ice cream crafted with unthinkable care” — it’s a longtime favorite of Uproxx!

(V)(VEG)(GF)

Shrimp Daddy

Sweet and salty like a cool island breeze. The only way to make Hawaiian garlic butter shrimp better is to serve it in a pineapple boat.

Slutty Vegan

This Atlanta-based crew makes truly beefy burgers, without beef. Their signature dishes, like the Fussy Hussy, the Sloppy Toppy, and the Hollywood Hooker are as delightful to order as they are to eat too.

(V)(VEG)

Sumo Dog

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Yankee Stadium’s own over-the-top ballpark-style dogs are sure to be a home run on the West Coast. The only problem is fitting them into your mouth.

(V)

Sus Arepas

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This low-carb South American treat packs an explosion of juicy spices into a warm flaky cornmeal biscuit. Craving a taste of adventure that also feels like home? This is the one!

(V)(VEG)(GF)

Sweetfin Poke

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From poke bowls to bento boxes, Sweetfin is a chef-led crew offering dishes like Spicy Tuna, Yuzu Salmon, and Sweet Potato Ponzu with Lime. Self-care never looked so classy.

(V)(VEG)(GF)

Tacos 1986

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Exclusively in the VIP area, these tacos and quesadillas are full of flavor and made to order. After one, you’ll be hooked.

(V)(VEG)

Todo Bien

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Refreshing and bold, these Southern California-style street tacos are almost too good. For newcomers to California, this is it!

Trill Burgers

If the smell doesn’t draw you in like a black hole of flavor, the satisfied look on the faces of people who eat here probably will. Try the fresh grilled onions for extra sweetness.

(V)(VEG)

Umami Burger (with Alvin Cailan)

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If you know – you know! Umami Burger is harrowed as the ultimate Burger wherever they go. And, under the direction of Chef Alvin Cailan ‘Chella goers can experience their food on a whole new level.

(VEG)

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream

Known for left field flavors like Pizza, Kraft Macaroni & Cheese, and Planet Earth, Van Leeuwen is french decadence with a ‘Merican lean.

(V)(VEG)(GF)

Vibe Organic Kitchen

The power meals from this Newport Beach-based operation will make you forget the whole menu is plant-based and gluten-free. The portions are sizable, but the flavor is even bigger.

(V)(VEG)(GF)

Wood Fire Wings

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Some might call him a wing specialist. Those who know him say he’s a wood fire BBQ legend. Don’t skip the grill-made magic of Urbyn Yates. Exclusively for VIP pass holders.

(V)(VEG)

Xiao Chi Jie

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These steamy soups and luscious dumplings won’t leave you hungry. But, they’ll definitely stoke your appetite for more.

Beyond Fringe — A Detailed Guide To Scotland’s (Other) Amazing Festivals

by
Scotland Festivals
UPROXX

When it comes to festivals in Scotland, one likely comes to mind first and foremost: Fringe. The Edinburgh arts fest is a nearly month-long celebration of creativity that has no equal across the globe. If you’re a fan of stand-up comedy, street magic, avant-garde theater, or pretty much anything in-between, you have to visit at least once in your lifetime. While the performers are fairly U.K.-focused, the fest has launched some serious careers. Fringe is where Robin Williams got his first big break on stage and contemporary comedians like Hannibal Burress and Mary Lynn Rajskub are known to frequent clubs or perform longer-term residencies during the festival.

Still, there’s more to Scotland’s festival scene than Fringe. The country boasts an eclectic mix of cultural fests that celebrate the intricacies of Scottish culture, one-of-a-kind whisky events tucked away on the Inner Hebrides, and rad EDM bacchanals that last days on end.

If those don’t nail your vibe (they definitely nail ours), there are plenty of other options, too. You might have heard of the famed Highland Games — featuring modern-day goliaths competing in feats of strength supported by a rich cultural (and culinary) backdrop — or the almost impossible-to-summarize scene at Eden (paganism! music! yoga!). The point being, the whole Scottish festival universe is unique, diverse, and a whole lot of fun. We’re calling out five festivals beyond Fringe that we love best below!

Terminal V Resurgence, Edinburgh

Terminal V Fest
Terminal V

The Fest:

The easiest recommendation we can give is Terminal V Resurgence. This is the ultimate techno party with a direct line to Berlin’s scene, where a sibling festival takes place next year. While that sounds amazing in and of itself, Festival Director Derek Martin takes us deeper:

“Our stage designs are productions that have been meticulously planned with no corners cut on costs,” he says. “Our lineups feature the biggest electronic acts from across the musical spectrum.”

On that last point, Martin isn’t kidding. The lineup this year is a deep dive into the cutting edge of techno, EDM, trance, and every other form of electronic music from all around the world in one place. That translates to nearly 60 acts on six stages with over 20,000 people dancing and partying every day and night. You can see the whole, vast lineup right here.

Details:

Terminal V runs April 16th-17th, 2022, at Edinburgh’s The Royal Highland Centre. The venue is out at the Edinburgh airport, meaning that there are plenty of hotels very close. Terminal V will also be providing pre-party buses to and from the venue to central Edinburgh and several other cities throughout the U.K.

Tickets start at $88 for a one-day pass with VIP upgrades starting at $27. The full weekend pass is $168.

Highland Games, Nationwide

Pitlochry Highland Games
Pitlochry Highland Games

The Fest:

If Fringe isn’t what you think of when you think of Scottish festivals, then it’s probably the Highland Games. This nearly 1,000-year-old cultural festival celebrates all things Scotland but is far more than a monolith. Sure, you can watch bulking Scottish dudes throw logs (caber toss) and rocks (shot putt) while a bagpipe parade bellows in the background alongside foot races. But you’ll also find plenty of local food, drink, dancing, and community.

2022’s Highland Games take place across the whole region. The gist of the Highland Games is really local celebrations of summer across the region. Expect a county fair vibe but with a quaint Scottish village feel to it with Scotland’s dramatic Highlands framing every scene.

In all, you could spend May to September traveling all of Scotland and hit all the games, and then leave having a deeper understanding of the whole country under your travel belt. Plus, you’ll have eaten some amazing meat pies and drunk some great whisky and ale along the way — hopefully, at a local pub after a tug-of-war battle just outside.

Details:

The Highland Games run May through September. You can check here for nine towns hosting the games this year. Most games will have a small entrance fee ($7 to $12 per person) plus an extra fee if you want to compete in any of the sports/activities. Don’t take that lightly though, the games are taken very seriously by local folks — it might be a good idea to just sit back with your whisky or pint and cheer from the crowd.

Fèis Ìle 2022, Islay

Fèis Ìle
Fèis Ìle

The Fest:

Fèis Ìle is the ultimate Scottish whisky festival. The festival takes place in the late spring on the isle of Islay and celebrates the island’s deep and long history with all things Scotch whisky.

Ben Shakespeare, the communications manager for the fest, breaks it down like this: “each distiller has their own festival days, which are a celebration of whisky and music. But mostly, it’s just people from all over the world coming together and having a good time on this little island.”

While whisky is the main focus, Fèis Ìle is really all about the community in Islay. The whole island participates from pub to pub and distillery to distillery, proudly sharing everything the island has to offer, from white sand beaches to the local Gaelic Centre, perfect for history fans. There are also bands and food and scores of very friendly locals — it’s a whole vibe.

Shakespeare offers one last tip, stay until the end. “The Final Fling is a great night!” he says. “It’s the last night of the festival when a lot of the locals come out and celebrate the end of a really busy week.”

Details:

Fèis Ìle runs from May 27 to June 4th this year. All “first batch” tickets are sold out but there will be more events and tickets going up soon. Keep an eye on the fest’s social media for updates. You’ll also be able to buy tickets to food events, boat trips around the island, and music events at the distilleries themselves.

We’d also argue that you’d need to book accommodation ASAP if you plan to go this year. There are just over 3,000 people on Islay and up to 10,000 are expected to show up for the fest.

Eden Festival, Moffat

Eden Festival
Eden Festival

The Fest:

The Eden Festival started off cheekily as the Wicker Man fest back in the early aughts. That vibe transcends to this day. The modern Eden Festival is a place where ancient Gaelic paganism, hippy vibes, and a 1990s carnival of the absurd collide. There are the requisite yoga mornings, meditation tents, vegan treats for everyone, and plenty of scantily clad and painted bodies everywhere you look.

Then there’s the music. Eden Festival is the biggest music fest in the whole country. This year’s event will have 250 acts across ten stages over just four days. Naturally, that vastness covers pretty much every genre of music there is. So we’re pretty confident that you’ll be able to find something that speaks to you.

All of that combines to create a scene, and that’s what the festival is all about. Those Wicker Man vibes still permeate through the whole event and drive the holistic and paganist nature of a festival that prioritizes treating all music and people as equals.

Details:

Eden Festival runs June 9th-12th, 2022, at St. Ann’s just outside Moffat in the Scottish Lowlands. There’s camping and glamping on-site for a fee. There are also public buses from Edinburgh and Glasgow with an Eden shuttle to take you the rest of the way. Otherwise, this is a pretty remote location. There are plenty of food stalls, beer taps, and cocktail bars on-site in case you’re worried about food.

Tickets are almost sold out. Expect to pay $178 to enjoy the whole festival run. You can also book bus travel, camping, and more right here.

TRNSMT Festival, Glasgow

TRNSMT Festival
TRNSMT Festival

The Fest:

Let’s end things with a classic multi-stage music festival in a big city. TRNSMT in Glasgow has a classic main stage in a big ol’ field with huge nostalgia acts this year like The Strokes as well as two supporting stages with up-and-coming hip-hop, rock (Wolf Alice is on the lineup), and EDM artists.

The stages are set up with vendors in between selling plenty of food and drink. That being said, the ripple here is that the fest takes place in Glasgow Green, which is right in the middle of the city. That means you have the entirety of Glasgow’s restaurant, bar, and club scene at your fingertips before, during, and after every performance. That makes this kind of the perfect festival to travel to, especially if you’re looking to party in one of Europe’s coolest cities while also attending a massive music festival.

Details:

The fest runs from July 8th-10th this year. Since it’s in the middle of Glasgow, transportation isn’t an issue once you arrive. Moreover, there a plenty of hotels within a stone’s throw of the Green. Though be warned, up to 120,000 people attend this festival. So book your accommodation now.

Tickets start at $82 for a single day or $210 for the full run. Though, since this is the first year back since 2019, tickets are going quickly.

More photos!

Terminal V

Terminal V
Terminal V
Terminal V
Terminal V
Terminal V
Terminal V

Highland Games

Crieff Highland Gathering
Crieff Highland Gathering
Pitlochry Highland Games
Pitlochry Highland Games
Strathmore Highland Games
Strathmoremore/BR Photos

Fèis Ìle

Fèis Ìle
Ben Shakespeare
Fèis Ìle
Ben Shakespeare
Fèis Ìle
Ben Shakespeare

Eden Festival

Eden Festival
Eden Festival/Instagram
Eden Festival
Eden Festival/Instagram
Eden Festival
Eden Festival/Instagram

TRNSMT Festival

TRNSMT Festival
TRNSMT Festival
TRNSMT Festival
TRNSMT Festival
TRNSMT Festival
TRNSMT Festival